Jozi like a local…an insiders guide to Johannesburg

Joey’s. Joburg. Jozi. Egoli. Home. I grew up in this crazy city, and always enjoy heading back, largely because all my family and friends are still there. Whilst Cape Town gets all the international cred (and deservedly so), I would say no trip to SA is complete without a couple of days in the financial heart of the country. It has arguably the best weather, the largest range of shops and restaurants whilst offering a unique insight into the countries chequered history. It also is an ideal starting point to visit the National Parks and game reserves.

However, there is no denying that the place has a reputation. I’ve lost count how many people have asked me if its safe to visit Jozi. And the simple answer is yes! The caveat is that as with anywhere in the world you need to keep your wits about you. But the city has been doing a lot of late to clean up its act.

Itinerary:

I would start the weekend with brekkie in Parkhurst at any number of the trendy coffee shops. My personal favourite is Vovo Telo, a bakery that serves up amazing breads and brioche to get you started on the right note.

Then head on over to Neighbourgoods Market for some shopping of arts and crafts and people spotting. When done there I would then head over to Apartheid Museum. The museum explores the dark mechanics of Apartheid South Africa, but ends on an uplifting note as it describes our transition to the Rainbow Nation. However, if you have been to Robben Island perhaps give this a miss unless you’re really really keen on SA history.

If you’re looking for a cool spot for sundowners, you could do worse than heading up to Westcliff’s Four Seasons Hotel, which offers stunning views of Joburg’s leafy suburbs. You can even throw in a spa if you have the time! Finish off the evening by wolfing down one of the best burgers in the city in a trendy area of Greenside. Duke’s Burgers are huge and delicious and they serve some fantastic craft beer or milkshakes to go with them.

Another great itinerary for the day would be starting off at Modderfontein Nature Reserve for some brekkie (they do an amazing buffet – but you have to pay entrance fee into the reserve). From there you could take the drive out to the Cradle of Humankind to satisfy your inner Indiana Jones. And no trip to SA is complete for me without visiting one of the best steak restaurants in the world (far better than Argentinian in my unbiased opinion). The Grillhouse in Rosebank offers amazing grub and has possibly the best wine and whisky menu in the country.

Tip: Getting around Joburg can be a pain. Rent a car if you’re comfortable with driving and ask the hire company for areas to avoid. Alternatively, Uber is now available in Joburg and is quite reasonable. Jozi has also become a bona fide tourist destination with its own hop-on hop-off bus.